Conductor's hand over sheet music

Music

Music is an art form whose medium is silence and sound. Its common elements include rhythm, dynamics, pitch, and the sonic qualities of texture and timbre. The creation, significance, definition and performance of music may vary depending on social context and culture. Music van be divided into genres and subgenres, and within the arts it may be classified as a fine art, a performing art, or an auditory art.

Program Information

Students interested in pursuing their passion for music can either take a Bachelor of Arts degree and major in music, or take a Bachelor of Music degree and major in one specific aspect of music. Students can also choose to attend regular universities with music programs, or attend a music school. The Manhattan School of Music is one of the best music schools in the country. It draws talented people who are passionate about music. Most programs require the application to submit pre-screening materials in order to be invited to the auditions. There are many types of majors at the school, while the program consists of four main areas of concentration: major field of study, ensemble performance, humanities, and course work in music related subjects. The Juilliard School is another top music school (it also offers dance and drama programs). Applicants need to complete an online application form (including an essay), provide the required application fee, any necessary pre-screening materials, academic transcripts, a letter of recommendation, and perform a live audition. Music students have the privilege of learning from dedicated faculty members and have many performance opportunities (there are nearly 700 Juilliard-sponsored performance activities annually). Students benefit from a challenging and diverse curriculum that includes a wide range of elective courses to go with specialized coursework in your chosen area of study.

music student

Pros & Cons

Earning a degree in music gives you the opportunity to do what you love everyday, and eventually pursue a career in music. If you are truly passionate about music, a music degree is an excellent way to develop this passion. You also get to be surrounded by people who are passionate about music, which can enhance your overall experience. At music school, you get the opportunity to do performances and work with great teachers each day. You also have access to recording equipment, concert halls, practice rooms and accompanists. They also help you develop contacts which can help you get into local choirs, recording studios, symphonies and Opera houses. These connections can help you start a career in the field. This is important, because there is no guarantee you will get work right away after you have completed your program. College can be expensive, especially specialized music schools. This may require you to take a steady paying job outside of music to pay off any debt you may have, which can stop you from pursuing your music. Competition can be fierce, especially for the best specialized music schools.

Graduate School & Career

Teaching provides a reliable source of income, and as such many music majors become music teachers. For those who are eager to teach the arts, teaching can be a very rewarding position. Some music majors choose to become music producers. Music producers help musicians carry out their artistic vision, and get to work inside recording studios. Some even become music composers or artists. Song-writing is another option, and there are opportunities within specific organizations to work long term. Songwriters get to work with different musicians to develop songs and meet specific requirements of the industry.